'Cracker Barrel' Hashbrown Casserole with French Onion Topping

What are the origins of Cracker Barrel hash brown casserole?

The origins of Cracker Barrel's famous hash brown casserole are shrouded in mystery, much like the secret blend of herbs and spices in Colonel Sanders' fried chicken.

As the legend goes, the Cracker Barrel hash brown casserole was born in the kitchen of a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in the United States.

The year was 1977, and the nation was still reeling from releasing the first Star Wars movie.

It was a time of bell-bottoms, disco, and questionable food choices.

But amidst the chaos, a culinary genius (or perhaps a mad scientist) decided to combine shredded potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce into a dish that would change the course of breakfast history forever.

Some say the recipe was inspired by the ancient Roman dish "Patata et Caseus Maximus," while others claim it was a gift from the gods themselves.

Whatever its true origins, the Cracker Barrel hash brown casserole quickly became a beloved staple of the restaurant's menu, and it has been warming the hearts and stomachs of hungry patrons ever since.

Can I make my own French fried onions?

French fried onions are a delicious and versatile ingredient commonly used in various dishes. They are made by thinly slicing onions and then frying them until they are crispy and golden. The result is a flavorful and crunchy topping that can be used in a variety of ways.

Make your own with this Homemade French Fried Onions (Oven fried) recipe with step-by-step instructions and pictures.

What is hashbrown casserole?

Hashbrown casserole is a delightful dish perfect for any meal, whether it's breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

It's like a warm hug for your taste buds, featuring crispy shredded potatoes mixed with creamy, cheesy goodness and various flavorful ingredients.

Can hashbrown casserole be frozen?

Hashbrown casserole can be frozen, much like a snowman on a chilly winter day.

Just make sure to wrap it up in a cozy layer of aluminum foil or freezer-safe container, and it'll be ready to enjoy for up to three months.

When you're ready to indulge in its cheesy, potato-y goodness, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven. Bon appétit!

Hashbrown casserole variations

Here are some ideas that will spice up your next breakfast or brunch gathering.

Cheesy Bacon Hashbrown Casserole: Add some crispy bacon bits and extra cheese to your hashbrown casserole for a mouthwatering twist on the traditional recipe.

Veggie Delight Hashbrown Casserole: Load up your casserole with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a healthier and more colorful dish.

Southwest Hashbrown Casserole: Give your casserole a kick with some diced green chiles, black beans, and a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh cilantro.

Italian Hashbrown Casserole: Add some Italian flair to your casserole with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Finish it off with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole: Make your hashbrown casserole a complete breakfast by adding cooked sausage or ham, diced onions, and bell peppers. Top it off with a few sunny-side-up eggs for a delicious and hearty meal.

So there you have it, five delicious variations on the classic hashbrown casserole. Give them a try, and let us know your favorite in the comments below!

Is Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole vegetarian?

The original Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is not vegetarian, containing meat-based ingredients like bacon and chicken broth.

However, modifying ingredient choices to make your own vegetarian version of this dish is relatively easy. For example, in this recipe, substitute a cream of vegetable soup for a cream of chicken.